Albuquerque Police target a gang moving into the Duke City from the East.

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They have already arrested 31 suspected gang members, and 12 gang associates in county, state or federal custody.

Police said the so-called Memphis Mob wanted to establish a drug distribution area, as well as a trafficking route from Mexico through Albuquerque and to the East.

But police said they had foiled the plot with a plan of their own Operation Falling Star.

Lt. Rob Smith with Albuquerque Police said, "That organization is a criminal enterprise that is well established in Memphis. That's their name. That's what they claim back home. That's what they tried to claim here."

They are suspected gang members from Tennessee who police said started moving into Albuquerque three years ago bringing drugs.

Police said they soon turned violent.

Police believe Jerel Carter is a Memphis Mobster who shot and killed a man near San Mateo and Mountain in Nov. 2008.

They arrested Terry Johnson after a swat stand-off in November. Police think Johnson shot a man several times in the head.

Frederick Williams faces many charges including armed robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and tampering with evidence.

Police also charged Williams with shooting a man near Louisiana and Zuni in April 2007.

These three men are now behind bars at the Metropolitan Detention Center.

This past fall, police launched Operation Falling Star to try and round up the gang.

Albuquerque Police Chief Ray Schultz said the quick and successful operation should serve as a warning to other gangs or groups looking to move into the area.

"We are watching, we will hit you hard and swift and come with full force," Schultz said.

Albuquerque police worked with other county, state and federal agencies.

They said the effort will continue in coming months as they link gang members to more crimes and focus on prosecuting them.

Police believe the majority of gang members who came to Albuquerque have been captured and most have extensive criminal records.